Stars Mourn the Loss of Richard Briers

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Ricky Gervais and Stephen Fry are among the stars who have voiced their sadness following the death of veteran British actor Richard Briers.

The Good Life actor passed away at his home in London on Sunday (17Feb13) at the age of 79 after spending several years battling chronic lung condition emphysema.

News of his death emerged on Monday (18Feb13) and a number of Britain's comedy stars spoke out to pay tribute to Briers, who also enjoyed roles in U.K. TV shows including Monarch of the Glen and narrated beloved children's series Noddy.

In a post on Twitter.com, Gervais wrote, "RIP the wonderful Richard Briers," while Fry added, "I've just heard the news that Richard Briers has died. How sad. He was the most adorable and funny man imaginable".

Other stars to offer messages in tribute include Thor star Tom Hiddleston, who writes, "Richard Briers. Unique, inimitable, and an inspiration. You will be greatly missed," and Being Human actor Russell Tovey "RIP Richard Briers... So sad... What a legend".

Rocker Tim Burgess remembered Briers as "an absolute charmer" while Australian singeractress Holly Valance adds, "Very sad news about Richard Briers' passing. I just adored him growing up. The Good Life was our staple at home".

Officials at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (Bafta) also remembered Briers in a statement, adding, "Saddened to learn that actor Richard Briers has passed away at the age of 79".